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uhh... a backpacking backpack. Osprey, Kelty, REI. WAY cheaper than the over priced hunting packs (Estock, Kifaru, etc). Currently use a Osprey Argos 85 with homemade felt cover. Quiet and carries more weight than I could physically handle (120lbs+). Decades of research and engineering went into some of these companies, why count them out because they don't come in a fancy camo pattern?

Camo has nothing to do with it. Why are you counting Eberlestock out? A lot of work went into those packs. Is it because they're camo?

uhh... a backpacking backpack. Osprey, Kelty, REI. WAY cheaper than the over priced hunting packs (Estock, Kifaru, etc). Currently use a Osprey Argos 85 with homemade felt cover. Quiet and carries more weight than I could physically handle (120lbs+). Decades of research and engineering went into some of these companies, why count them out because they don't come in a fancy camo pattern?

You are 100% correct that Kifaru, Kuiu and other bags that play in that level are pricey. Five years ago, I would have told you that you are crazy telling me that I should spend 800 bucks on a pack. Really not worth the money when hauling 40-60 lbs around on a backcountry hunt. But when you are successful and you are making a couple trips with 90 - 140 lbs, you will realize the difference. Actually you probably won't unless you have had the pleasure of using the other packs with the same amount of weight. But it is a matter of opinion and my shoulders and back tell me I made the right choice. It is hard to pay that much for something that you "might" get to use. Like I said, hauling 40-60 lbs is not using the pack.. I got my pack in April of 2013 and and started doing training hikes in the mountains around home (7200 feet) by August I was hauling around 70 lbs for 4 miles 5 days a week. Never felt better. Then I got to haul two loads of easily 120+ twice for almost 7 miles. My legs hurt, my feet hurt, but my back and shoulders were great. I don't consider myself old by any means (41) but I was very impressed. I am as cheap as they come about stuff so it hurt to pay that money.. now I wish I had done it sooner.

Those other packs are good too.. I am not saying they are not. But there is a difference in a Hiker and a Hunter. We treat stuff differently, we have different needs, different expectations. Just a fact. The elbers, kifaru, Kuius, are used and abused by lots of people. I personally have chosen a Kifaru pack. Why? Because during my research had the opportunity to look at a lot side by side. And I know for a fact that the small group of people that design those packs also use them and abuse them on a VERY regular basis and make improvements on what they find and what the users/customers say.. Other vendors do this too... so not trying to slight anyone.

So that is the difference in the Hunting specific packs and the general hiking pack.. functionality response to a specific market.. Will the general packs work.. YES... Will the highend hunting packs work better? YES...... So you just have to decide what you want.

So I guess the point of that statement was to just let people know not to count out regular multiday backpacking packs. I didn't mean to offend any Kifaru/Kuiu/Eberlestock users. They are just as rugged and tough multiday hunting packs and generally cheaper.

However, they aren't specialized like a hunting pack. You won't find REI making a bow or rifle scabbard sewn in. To pack out I just put my clothes/camp gear in a black garbage bag and that keeps them blood free once the blood soaks through the game bags.

Depending on the hunt I also use a decent plastic sled (I mentioned this in another thread) when backpacking and hunt from a base camp. I leave the sled at camp and hike back to grab it. Makes it nice to get that buck out in one load, works just fine in dry trail conditions, and takes some weight off your back.

There are some recreational backpacking packs that may do alright as a hunting pack, but as the other said, they aren't made for hunting. I am glad your osprey is working for you. I can assure you it was not made for hauling "pack-out" type loads (120 lb. plus). If you don't believe me, call Osprey and ask them what loads they recommend for your pack.

The premium packs (Kifaru, SG, Mystery Ranch, etc.) were, and they will do it with surprising comfort. They are also built to a higher level of durability. You could throw them off a cliff.

I think it is fine to try to make one work, but that is not what they were made to do.

I Love my Kelty meat hauler frame for packing out elk quarters... Amazing harness and very very flexible for your personal body frame.

I have used an Eberlestock sling shot for 8 years now, and I am looking at a new day pack for my archery hunts. I love the pack for a minimalist approach, but have to be VERY creative when I shed layers as to where to store them!!! Lol

I want a hip belt with molle for a pistol, and a pack that works...haven't found one yet that has both in my books.....why cant these guys make a hip belt with molle pouches for those of us who don't need hip fanny pouches for odd gear? That way real men can remove these stupid things and strap on some hard wear to their pack!

I want a hip belt with molle for a pistol, and a pack that works...haven't found one yet that has both in my books.....why cant these guys make a hip belt with molle pouches for those of us who don't need hip fanny pouches for odd gear? That way real men can remove these stupid things and strap on some hard wear to their pack!

right? A .44 mag attachment would be awesome! I'm sure someone one on here has made one

Bitterroot Bulls:
Yeah I looked it up and my pack is rated for 85lbs. 120lbs may be pushing it. Do any of the hunting companies offer custom molded hip belts and custom internal frames with purchase? Most specialty backpack shops offer this for upper end ospreys and a few other brands I believe. Makes for a darn comfortable pack.

In the end its like debating a Remington 870 versus a benelli vinci, they both can kill birds (or haul meat in this case) it just depends on the person and how you use it!

I didn't mean to come across like you offended me. I was just trying to express the fact that the "hunting" packs have a specific function that meets the needs that the regular packs don't. I am not as eloquent as BB.

Any pack can carry, some just do certain things better than others. Each person has a different need.

In the end its like debating a Remington 870 versus a benelli vinci, they both can kill birds (or haul meat in this case) it just depends on the person and how you use it!

Perfect analogy. It is all personal preference. Just like some swear by a 243 for elk and others say you need a 300. Its all what works for you. Unfortunately it isn't real easy to try a Kifaru bag before you buy one. Unless you find someone with one in your area. You send them your measurements and they are built to order.

Don K that sweet Shellhead will do just find for the minimalist approach. Just plan on taking a few more trips to get all the meat out with the limited space. I really think the original intent of that particular pack was to deter grizzlies from attacking, they are very afraid of turtles.